In a heartwarming rescue mission, six young lions known as the “Kuwait 6” were saved from the illegal wildlife trade and transported to the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary in Johannesburg with the help of Qatar Airways Cargo. These lions, consisting of males Muheeb, Saham, Shujaa, Saif, and females Dhubiya and Aziza, were previously cared for at Kuwait Zoo before being offered a new home at the sanctuary in South Africa. This initiative was part of Qatar Airways Cargo’s WeQare initiative, which aims to rewild wildlife and endangered species back to their natural habitats free of charge. Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo, expressed delight in supporting ADI and being part of the effort to return these lions to Africa.
Jan Creamer, President of Animals Defenders International, expressed gratitude towards Qatar Airways Cargo and the WeQare program for covering the cost of air transport for the lions. She highlighted the importance of providing a better habitat for the Kuwait 6 and ensuring their well-being. Alzahra Aljanabi, Senior Translator at the Animal Welfare Department in Kuwait, emphasized the risks of keeping wild animals as pets and the need for more awareness to combat wildlife trafficking. This rescue mission not only saved the lives of these lions but also brought attention to the importance of animal welfare and the dangers of the illegal wildlife trade.
Qatar Airways Cargo’s commitment to animal welfare is evident through their recent initiatives, including the opening of a new state-of-the-art Animal Centre and the relaunch of their Live product. These efforts have set new standards in the transport of live animals, with the airline transporting over 550,000 animals in 2023. As a leading transporter, Qatar Airways Cargo continues to advocate for animal welfare on a global scale, ensuring that their operations respect and contribute positively to the well-being of animals. Through their WeQare initiative, the airline is making a significant impact in the fight against wildlife trafficking and the protection of endangered species.
The successful rescue and transport of the Kuwait 6 lions is a testament to the collaborative efforts of organizations like Animal Defenders International, Qatar Airways Cargo, and the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary. By working together, they were able to provide a safe and spacious habitat for these lions in South Africa, allowing them to live out their lives in a natural environment. This rescue mission not only saved the lives of these lions but also raised awareness about the importance of animal welfare and the dangers of the illegal wildlife trade. It serves as an inspiring example of how cooperation and compassion can make a difference in the lives of vulnerable animals.
The story of the Kuwait 6 lions serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting wildlife and their natural habitats. By rescuing these lions from the illegal wildlife trade and providing them with a new home at the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary, Qatar Airways Cargo has shown its commitment to animal welfare and conservation. Through initiatives like WeQare, the airline is making a significant impact in the fight against wildlife trafficking and the protection of endangered species. This rescue mission is a shining example of how collaboration and dedication can make a positive difference in the lives of animals in need.
